Tyler Wynn
Many users have reported muffled audio issues with their SteelSeries headphones, particularly with the Arctis 7 Wireless model. Muffled audio can be caused by incorrect audio settings, such as having the wrong default device selected or applying multiple EQs simultaneously. Additionally, microphone placement and settings can also contribute to muffled audio. To resolve these issues, users can adjust their audio and microphone levels, ensure proper microphone placement, and check that the correct default devices are selected.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Reason for muffled audio | Double EQing, i.e., applying an EQ or preset in Sonar and Engine simultaneously |
| Solution | Use only one EQ at a time |
| Other solutions | Check if the audio issue is specific to the Chat channel; if so, disable the Clearcast AI Noise Cancellation on the Chat tab |
| Check if the issue is occurring due to incorrect Default Format settings on your PC; if so, adjust the Default Format to 48000 Hz | |
| Check if the issue is occurring due to incorrect audio levels; if so, adjust the audio level to your liking in the Sonar Mixer under the Device Manager |
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What You'll Learn
Adjusting audio levels
If you are experiencing muffled audio with your SteelSeries headset, there are several adjustments you can make to the audio levels to try and fix the issue.
First, ensure that your microphone is positioned correctly. The flat side of the microphone should be aimed towards your mouth, with the head of the microphone placed no more than 1.5 inches (3.5 cm) away from the corner of your mouth.
Next, you can adjust the audio levels in the SteelSeries Engine software. Open the software and navigate to the Engine tab on the right-hand side of the screen. Click on the headset product banner, and then on the Audio tab if it is visible. Here, you can adjust the mic volume level for your headset and click "Save". Make sure that the Default Format is set to 48,000 Hz.
You can also adjust the audio levels in the Sonar Mixer under the Device Manager. If your Game, Chat, or Mic volume seems too quiet, increase the level percentage. For example, if you set the level to 100%, you can then easily control the volume using the mixer sliders.
If you are still experiencing issues with muffled audio, check that you are only using one EQ at a time. Double EQing, or applying an EQ or preset in Sonar and Engine simultaneously, can result in potential distortion or clipping of the audio signal.
Additionally, adjust the Windows sound settings by going to "Sound" in your PC's Control Panel. Under the "Recording" tab, right-click on the SteelSeries microphone and select "Properties". In the "Device Properties" window, click on "Additional device properties" and go to the Advanced tab. Set the Default Format to 48,000 Hz.
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Double EQ
SteelSeries offers a range of audio-related features and functionalities for its users, including the ability to adjust EQ settings to enhance their audio experience. One issue that some users may encounter is audio sounding muffled, which could be due to "Double EQ".
Adjusting EQ Settings
SteelSeries allows users to tweak their Arctis EQ settings using SteelSeries Engine or Sonar to find their preferred sound. Users can create a SteelSeries account and log in to access these features. Various EQ presets are available, such as "Immersion" and "Music", which enhance bass and provide a more immersive experience. Users can also manually adjust the EQ settings to their liking, allowing them to customise the audio to their preferences.
Sonar Mixer
The Sonar Mixer in the Device Manager allows users to configure audio levels. If the audio is too quiet, users can increase the level percentage to 100% and then use the mixer sliders to control the volume. This ensures that the audio is not limited by a low level percentage.
Microphone Audio
In addition to adjusting headset audio, SteelSeries also provides settings to optimise microphone audio. The microphone should be positioned correctly, with the flat side aimed at the user's face and the head near the corner of the mouth. Users can then adjust the mic level using SteelSeries Engine or the Sound settings in the PC's Control Panel to ensure optimal sound quality and noise cancellation.
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Microphone placement
For a microphone with a highly directional pattern, such as the SteelSeries microphone, proper placement is essential for achieving the best sound quality and maximising noise cancellation. The flat side of the microphone should be aimed at the speaker's face, with the head of the microphone positioned near the corner of the mouth, no more than 1.5 inches away. This close-miking technique, typically within 12 inches of the sound source, helps capture a direct sound and reduce ambient noise.
The type of microphone also influences the placement. Ribbon microphones, for example, are often placed at a moderate distance to capture a blend of direct sound and the room's characteristics. Adjusting the angle and orientation of the microphone relative to the sound source can shape the tonal quality and reduce unwanted frequencies. Additionally, using gobos or acoustic panels can control reflections and provide clearer recordings when using ribbon microphones.
Another aspect to consider is the use of multiple microphones. Techniques like XY, ORTF, and spaced pairs utilise multiple condenser microphones to capture a more natural and spacious sound image. However, it is crucial to pay attention to the placement of each microphone to avoid phase cancellation, which occurs when two microphones pick up the same sound at slightly different times and cancel each other out. Maintaining a good distance between microphones can help prevent this issue.
Finally, background noise can also contribute to muffled and unclear audio. It is advisable to choose a quiet location for recording, free from external noises such as traffic or appliances. Using a microphone stand can help reduce handling noise and vibrations, while pop filters can minimise plosive sounds and improve recording clarity. Adjusting microphone settings, such as the default format and audio levels in the SteelSeries Engine, can further enhance the audio quality and ensure optimal microphone performance.
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Default Format settings
To access and adjust the Default Format settings on a PC, follow these steps:
- Go to "Sound" in your PC's Control Panel.
- Under the "Recording" tab, right-click on the microphone you are using and select "Properties".
- Navigate to the Advanced tab and locate the Default Format setting.
- Ensure that the Default Format is set to the appropriate frequency, typically recommended as 48,000 Hz.
It is worth noting that some Steelseries models may offer different frequency options, such as 96,000 Hz, in the absence of the 48,000 Hz setting.
Additionally, users have reported that adjusting the Default Format settings in Windows Sound Settings can also impact audio performance. Here are the steps to adjust these settings:
- Open the Windows Sound Settings by searching for "Sound" in the Windows search bar.
- Locate the "Sound Mixer" option within the Sound Settings.
- Change the default sound device from Steelseries to Windows Direct Sound or another appropriate output option, such as "Arctis Nova Pro Wireless".
By following these steps and adjusting the Default Format settings, users can optimise their audio experience and potentially resolve issues related to muffled or distorted audio on their Steelseries headsets.
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ClearCast AI Noise Cancellation
SteelSeries is a company that produces gaming headsets, microphones, and audio equipment. The company has developed a noise-cancelling microphone called ClearCast, which is Discord-certified and comes standard on every Arctis. ClearCast uses AI noise cancellation under Sonar Chat to reduce or eliminate sounds other than the user's voice. This feature can be adjusted to different levels, from minimal to maximum, depending on the user's environment and preferences.
However, some users have reported issues with ClearCast AI noise cancellation, claiming that it causes audio distortion. This distortion may be due to Double EQing, where an EQ or preset is applied in Sonar and Engine simultaneously, or it could be related to audio enhancements and spatialization from gaming devices like the PS5 and Xbox. Disabling ClearCast AI noise cancellation has been reported to fix the issue of audio distortion.
Sonar Software is a free app developed by SteelSeries that allows users to enhance their audio experience. It offers audio presets, a 10-band Parametric EQ, and ClearCast AI Noise Cancellation. With ClearCast AI, users can adjust the degree of noise cancellation and its impact on their voice. The "Smart Voice" feature automatically controls the sound level of the user's voice to prevent it from becoming too loud or too quiet.
To ensure optimal sound quality and maximize noise cancellation, SteelSeries recommends proper microphone placement. The flat side of the microphone should be aimed at the user's face, with the head of the microphone positioned near the corner of the mouth, no more than 1.5 inches away. Users can also adjust the audio and microphone levels in the Sonar Mixer under the Device Manager.
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Frequently asked questions
Two sound devices are installed for the headset: "Arctis 7 Chat" and "Arctis 7 Game". Make sure "Game" is set as the default.
In the Sonar Mixer under the Device Manager, you can configure the audio level to your liking. If the audio coming through your headset is too low, check the Gaming and Chat levels. A lower percentage means that the audio coming through to you is at a lower audio level.
Disable the Clearcast AI Noise Cancellation on the Chat tab.
